News & Updates from Federation

The Strength of Jewish Peoplehood

Friday, July 31

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

Earlier this month I traveled to Ukraine, Georgia, and Poland with Federation leaders to witness the impact of our partnership with JDC. From resilient communities rebuilding Jewish life to centuries of enduring tradition, the trip reaffirmed the power of investing in one another.

Public Investment Strengthens Community Security Across Greater Washington

Wednesday, July 29

Keeping our Jewish community safe requires trusted partnerships, coordinated planning, and community-wide action. Thanks to a new $180,000 grant, JShield is expanding free security training, grant assistance, and emergency preparedness to help Jewish organizations across Greater Washington stay safe and resilient.

The Roots That Hold Us

Tuesday, July 28

From conversion to Judaism and a lifelong commitment to community, Danielle and David Frum found strength in Jewish ritual, philanthropy, and tradition as they navigated the devastating loss of their daughter, Miranda.

A Tu B’Av Story: Finding Love in DC

Tuesday, July 28

When Vanessa Sax moved to DC after college, she was looking for Jewish community—not love. A softball team, one unexpected “Shalom,” and a shared commitment to Jewish life led to a lifelong partnership rooted in tradition, belonging, and helping others build community.

Get to Know Capital Camps

Monday, July 27

The Jewish Community Foundation of The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

A summer away from home can become a lifetime of Jewish connection. For nearly four decades, Capital Camps has helped children build friendships, leadership skills, and Jewish identity through immersive camp experiences made possible by community support and scholarship funding.

There Are So Many Ways to Be Jewish: A Reflection from Mexico City

Tuesday, July 21

By Lindsay Karr, Co-Chair of Federation's Women's Philanthropy Mission to Mexico City

While touring one of Mexico City’s oldest synagogues, one simple insight stayed with me: “There are so many ways to be Jewish.” That perspective shaped our Women’s Philanthropy mission, reminding me that Jewish identity is built through connection, community, and the people who inspire us to keep building together.

A Lesson I’ve Carried Since 1987

Friday, July 10

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

From delivering hidden Hebrew dictionaries to Soviet refuseniks in 1987 to visiting Jewish communities in Georgia and Ukraine today, this journey reflects the enduring power of global Jewish solidarity and the impact of Federation's commitment to supporting Jewish life across borders.

What Mexico Taught Me About the Global Jewish Community

Wednesday, July 8

Jessika Wellisch, Co-Chair, Federation's Women's Philanthropy Mexico City Mission

When I joined Federation’s Women’s Philanthropy mission to Mexico City, I expected to learn about another Jewish community. Instead, I discovered how deeply connected we are—and how the shared calling to build, create, and strengthen Jewish life continues to shape our future.

The Desk Between Us

Wednesday, July 8

Valerie Landis, Associate Director, Donor Engagement, The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

When Valerie completed her Federation interview writing exercise, she didn’t realize she was sitting at the same desk where her grandfather once wrote fundraising appeals for United Jewish Appeal. His legacy of service quietly became part of her own journey in Jewish communal life.

Pride, Israel, and Building Bridges Through Shlichut

Wednesday, July 1

Chen, Federation Community Shlicha

There was one unforgettable moment during the Pozez JCC Pride celebration that reminded me how powerful acceptance can be. Through Israeli stories, personal connection, and shared experiences, the evening showed how community, belonging, and love can build lasting bridges between people and Israel.

Choosing to Build

Monday, June 29

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

Jewish America stands at a pivotal crossroads as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary. This reflection explores democracy, Jewish identity, polarization, antisemitism, and the responsibilities that will shape the next era of American Jewish life

Why I Leaned into the NoVA Leadership Cohort

Monday, June 29

Jesse Reisman, NoVA Leadership Cohort Participant

After experiencing Jewish communities across North America and Israel, Jesse Reisman, NoVA Leadership Cohort Participant, found something unique in Northern Virginia: a Federation leadership program that builds lasting relationships, practical leadership skills, and a stronger, more connected Jewish community.

Venezuela Earthquake Situation Update

Friday, June 26

Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA)

The Summer That Shapes a Lifetime

Wednesday, June 24

Jewish summer camp helps children build lifelong friendships, leadership skills, and a strong connection to Jewish life. Through One Happy Camper grants and need-based financial aid, Federation is helping more families access safe, joyful, and transformative Jewish camp experiences.

The Work Behind Safe Jewish Spaces

Tuesday, June 23

Learn how JShield’s expanded security leadership is helping protect and strengthen Jewish life throughout Greater Washington.

We’re Wired for Connection

Monday, June 22

Gil Preuss, Chief Executive Officer

Thank goodness for basketball, soccer, and even aliens. Reflecting on the joy of shared experiences, this message explores how connection, belonging, and collective purpose strengthen communities and inspire Federation’s work to build meaningful relationships across Jewish life.

The Jewish Connections I Never Expected to Find in Greece

Wednesday, June 17

Aaron Feldman, National Young Leadership Cabinet Member

A rainy Next Gen gathering became a powerful reminder of Jewish community, continuity, and connection. As Federation’s Senior Director, Financial Resource Development, Sarah Green reflects on leadership, philanthropy, and building relationships that will sustain Jewish life for generations.

How We Build a Community That Outlasts the Storm

Monday, June 15

Sarah Green, Senior Director, Financial and Resource Development

A rainy Next Gen gathering became a powerful reminder of Jewish community, continuity, and connection. As Federation’s Senior Director, Financial Resource Development, Sarah Green reflects on leadership, philanthropy, and building relationships that will sustain Jewish life for generations.